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Beware of Botulism Risk from Certain Olives

FDA is alerting consumers to possible serious health risks from eating olives that may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium can cause botulism, a potentially fatal illness.

On March 27, 2007, Charlie Brown di Rutigliano & Figli S.r.l, of Bari, Italy, recalled the olives, which had been distributed to wholesalers who marketed them nationally to restaurants and retail stores.

The olives have codes that start with the letter "G" and are followed by 3 or 4 digits. They are sold under the following brands: Bonta di Puglia, Cento, Corrado's, Dal Raccolto, Flora, Roland, and Vantia. All sizes of cans, glass jars and pouches of Cerignola, Nocerella and Castelvetrano type olives (not the 10-pound pails at this time) are affected.

Advice for Consumers:

• Don't eat the recalled olives alone or in other foods, even if they do not appear to be spoiled.
• Discard recalled olives or return them to the point of purchase.
• If in doubt, contact the retailer and inquire whether its olives are part of the recall.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of botulism: general weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble with speaking or swallowing, difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation.
• You may also report illnesses associated with consumption of these olives to the nearest FDA district offices: http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall.

Consumers with questions may contact Charlie Brown Company at 011-039-080-7839073 or charliebrownbari@yahoo.com.

Date Posted: April 18, 2007

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